Fantasy Classics Fiction Childrens Audiobook

Quick Take

Young Princess Irene, sent away to the country to be raised in a place nestled into the side of a mountain that's half farmhouse and half castle, has stumbled into a conspiracy -- of Goblins! Really, Goblins! Their evil plot threatens the king and his palace and of course Irene and her friend and her great-great-grandmother (who is a witch, just for good measure). This book has been famous fun for generations, and you ought to come see why. Highly recommended. Jeffrey Holdaway, in the New Zealand Art Monthly, said that both books start out as "normal fairytales but slowly become stranger", and that they contain layers of symbolism similar to that of Lewis Carroll's work.

Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: The Princess and the Goblin

Introduction

"The Princess and the Goblin" by George MacDonald is a timeless classic that has captivated readers for generations. This enchanting story follows the adventures of Princess Irene and her friend Curdie as they encounter a world of goblins and uncover a conspiracy that threatens the kingdom. With its unique blend of fantasy, adventure, and symbolism, this book has left a lasting impact on the genre of fantasy literature. In this article, we will explore the book's author, analyze the views of readers, and discuss the reasons why "The Princess and the Goblin" is highly recommended.

About George MacDonald

George MacDonald, the author of "The Princess and the Goblin," was a Scottish author, poet, and Christian minister. Born in 1824, MacDonald was educated at Aberdeen University and later pursued a career as a minister at Arundel. However, his unorthodox views led to his dismissal from the church, and he turned to fiction as a means of earning a living. Over the course of his career, MacDonald wrote over 50 books, including poignant fairy tales and fantasy novels. He inspired many authors, such as C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, and W.H. Auden, who regarded him as their literary mentor. MacDonald's work is known for its poetic language, deep symbolism, and exploration of themes related to faith and imagination.

Analysis of Views

Classic Fairytale with a Twist: Many readers appreciate the unique blend of classic fairytale elements with a twist of fantasy and symbolism. The story begins as a normal fairytale but gradually becomes stranger, with layers of symbolism reminiscent of Lewis Carroll's work.
Evocative Writing Style: George MacDonald's writing style is praised for its lyrical quality and vivid imagery. Readers find themselves immersed in the quintessential faerie tale, with a sense of stepping into a magical world.
Inspirational Influence: The influence of George MacDonald on authors such as C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien cannot be overstated. Readers appreciate the foundational role that MacDonald played in shaping the genre of fantasy literature. Without his contributions, fantasy may not have evolved in the same way it did during the 20th century.
Nostalgia and Timelessness: Despite its age, "The Princess and the Goblin" continues to resonate with readers who appreciate its nostalgic appeal. The book has stood the test of time, providing a glimpse into the origins of fantasy literature and serving as a reminder of its importance in shaping our imaginations.
Enchanting Storytelling: The storytelling in "The Princess and the Goblin" is praised for its enchantment and ability to transport readers into a world of wonder and adventure. Readers enjoy the escapism offered by this classic tale and appreciate the author's skill in weaving a compelling narrative.

Reasons for Recommendation

Foundational Role in Fantasy Literature: As one of the foundation cornerstones for fantasy literature, "The Princess and the Goblin" is highly recommended for readers interested in exploring the roots of this genre. Without these early works, modern fantasy would not be what it is today.
Inspirational Influence on Later Authors: George MacDonald's influence on authors such as C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien is a significant reason to read "The Princess and the Goblin." These authors recognized the profound impact that MacDonald had on their own writing and found inspiration in his works.
Timelessness and Nostalgia: The timelessness of "The Princess and the Goblin" makes it a recommended read for both children and adults alike. The story has stood the test of time, providing a sense of nostalgia for those who have read it in their youth while also captivating new readers with its enchanting narrative.

Conclusion

"The Princess and the Goblin" by George MacDonald is a beloved classic that has left an indelible mark on the genre of fantasy literature. With its unique blend of classic fairytale elements, evocative writing style, and inspirational influence on later authors, this book continues to captivate readers to this day. Whether you are seeking an enchanting adventure or exploring the origins of fantasy literature, "The Princess and the Goblin" is highly recommended for anyone who appreciates the power of storytelling to transport us to worlds beyond our own imagination.